Selective complexation of metals with isoxazolidine-containing fluorophores

A series of 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition products of functionalized nitrones with 1,3-propene sultone and maleimide was synthesized through a multi-step scheme. Their fluorescent response to different metal ions was examined. Selective quenching of the fluorescent materials by Cu(II), Fe(III), and Ru(III) in acetonitrile was demonstrated, providing access to new chemosensor design for selected transition metals.